Verbena Officinalis Bampton

'Bampton' is an unusual vervain discovered growing in a public garden in Bampton, Devon. A tight crown sends up glossy, serrated leaves and fine wiry stems washed in deep metallic purple, then carries countless tiny purplish-pink flowers from midsummer into autumn. The open framework is almost transparent, allowing it to weave among grasses and perennials without obscuring them. Butterflies and bees visit the long-season flowers. Seedlings may vary, but the best combine dark foliage, airy branching and the effortless self-sown character of common vervain.